Trend of Hearing Loss Across Age Groups and Measures to Stem Avoidable Loss Among Youths

Ms See Jinli Jean asked the Minister for Health (a) what is the trend of hearing loss across the different resident age groups over the past 10 years; and (b) what are the measures in place or to be introduced to stem avoidable hearing loss among Singaporean youth.

Based on data collected in national health surveys, the prevalence of self-reported hearing loss in adults 18-74 years old has increased from 1.3% in 2013 to 9.2% in 2023. This increase is most significant in adults aged 60 years and above. The significant increase is likely due to increased awareness.

The School Health Service and Student Health Centre run by the Health Promotion Board conducts hearing screenings for Primary 1 and Secondary 2 students. In 2023, 0.4% of Primary 1 students and 0.2% of Secondary 2 students were found to have some degree of hearing impairment. The trend has been stable over the last five to 10 years.

There has been heightened concern about hearing loss amongst youths lately, due to their lifestyles. Indeed, research has shown that prolonged or consistent exposure to loud noise or music, including the use of audio devices like headphones, can lead to hearing loss.

The Government can do what we can to minimise the risk exposure to hearing loss. For example, at birth, all newborns undergo a hearing screening test. Infants at high-risk of hearing impairment, such as preterm infants born before 32 weeks, will also have formal audiological evaluation. Schools take precautionary measures when students are in noisier settings, such as operation of machinery in Design & Technology workshops or shooting activities during Uniform Group Co-curricular activities, by requiring students to use ear plugs or earmuffs. As for exposure to loud noise in youth because of social and lifestyle choices, we can educate and raise awareness as much as we can.